The most democratic nations on earth

The most democratic nations on earth

Denmark is the most democratic nation on earth, according to a list published by the World Democracy Audit.

The organisation ranks nations on how they fare in terms of granting political rights, civil liberties and press freedom.

The Scandinavian nation always figures near the top of any democratic index. It boasts of an extremely high standard of living, excellent human rights record, and high levels of freedom enjoyed by its citizens. It is also considered to be one of the happiest nations on earth.

Image: The Nyhavn canal, part of the Copenhagen Harbour, in DenmarkPhotographs: Teis Hald Jensen/Reuters

India

India is the 47th most democratic nation according to the study. Though the world's largest democracy fares reasonably well in the fields of political rights and civil liberties, it only finds a place at the 45th slot in terms of press freedom. This low ranking is surprising as India prides itself on granting absolute freedom to the press and lack of restrictions on the media.

Its performance in tackling corruption also leaves a lot to be desired, as it ranks below 63 countries in the corruption index.

India is considered to be one of the most corrupt nations of the world, where the malice of corruption is deeply embedded in all three arms of the government -- the bureaucracy, the judiciary and the legislature.

Image: Teenagers place oil lamps on the Yamuna river behind the Taj MahalPhotographs: Brijesh Singh/Reuters